Investing in this leather jacket by Helmut Lang was one of my most spine tingling yet efficient purchases last year back in NYC. An investment piece, this jacket pretty much comes everywhere with me. I wear it over dresses and shirts (it has been blogged to death as you may well know, Blog Reader) but what I love the most is pairing it with a vintage tee – mixing old and new together.

I will confess that I used to be of the opinion that mixing old and new meant ‘want to buy all designer, can’t afford it, but hey ain’t I cool anyway’. My view of that has changed. It seems very individual to mix vintage and designer pieces of your choice and a mark of great style to look good in doing so. I’ve paired my Helmut Lang jacket here with a vintage sports tee from an awesome boutique in Charleston, The Vault.

There is a phenomenal amount of leather around in the shops right now. This fabric remains key for spring summer 13 and my advice would be to invest in one really great leather piece, like this dress from Reiss, a statement bag from Fleet Ilya or even this faux-leather tee from H&M. I also can’t let this post go by without mentioning my trusty satchel from The Cambridge Satchel Co. here. Another key leather piece, these bags make perfect gifts in the new metallic shades. Pop one on your Christmas wish list!

I have to say, the one fashion problem that has never plagued me is the feeling that I am not stylish because I can’t afford designer (I do, however, suffer from pretty much every other fashion-related neurosis that exists.] I think part of the fun of fashion is mixing surprising pieces; the results are always much more interesting than a straight off the runway look if you ask me Although there is something to be said for a good designer piece, and your Helmut Lang jacket is a true testament to that.
xox,
Cee

only1katieb AUTHOR14

A well-fitted leather jacket is a must in a person’s wardrobe and I like how well fit yours is, with the draping! How much a vintage tee helps to tone down the overall look and make it look casual chic